A pioneering NHS programme using artificial intelligence (AI) to detect early signs of liver disease is expanding across the South West of England.
The Somerset NHS Foundation Trust pilot analysed blood test data from 700,000 adults, looking for markers linked to liver damage. The AI flagged around 700 high-risk patients, helping doctors identify cases that may have otherwise gone unnoticed.
Following the success of the £1.4 million project, NHS England has approved wider regional funding to roll out the technology to more hospitals and GP services.
A Silent and Deadly Condition
Liver disease is often called the “quiet killer” because symptoms usually appear only when the condition has become severe.
Peter Ernest from Taunton discovered he had liver disease during a routine test in 2021.
“I didn’t feel ill… you can go through life with liver disease and maybe pick it up too late,” he said.
He later underwent treatment in Bristol and London and has since recovered.
AI Scans Routine Blood Tests
Unlike traditional screening programmes, the AI system reviews existing NHS blood tests, meaning patients do not need extra appointments or investigations.
Clinical research fellow Dr Katie Denver explained:
“Liver disease never gets the same attention as heart disease or cancer, but it is very common.”
So far, letters have been sent to 700 flagged patients, with hundreds already starting treatment or monitoring plans. More letters will go out in the coming months as the programme scales.
Why This Matters
Liver disease rates are rising across the UK, driven by alcohol, obesity, and viral infections. Early detection is key, as up to 90% of liver damage can be reversed if caught in time.
The AI approach could become a national model to prevent late-stage liver failure and reduce pressure on NHS services.
